Lens module and camera module comprising the same

Abstract

A lens module and a camera module including the same are provided. The lens module includes a first driving unit configured to move a first lens barrel in a direction of an optical axis, and a second driving unit configured to move a second lens barrel in the direction of the optical axis, wherein the second driving unit is disposed between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel and is configured to change a distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0119205, filed on September 7, 2021, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The following description relates to a lens module and a camera module including the lens module. Background Technology

[0004] Cameras have been implemented in mobile electronic devices, such as, but not limited to, smartphones, tablet PCs, and laptops, and cameras implemented in mobile terminals may include, for example, autofocus (AF) functions, optical image stabilization (OIS) functions, and zoom functions.

[0005] However, in order to achieve these functions, the structure of the camera module becomes more complex, and the size of the camera module increases, which in turn increases the size of the mobile electronic device in which the camera module is installed.

[0006] Additionally, when performing OIS by directly moving the lens or image sensor, the weight of the lens or image sensor and other components attached to it may need to be taken into account, which may require a driving force higher than a certain level, potentially increasing power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This overview is provided to present, in a simplified form, some concepts that will be further described in the detailed description below. This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] In general, a lens module includes: a first drive unit configured to move a first lens barrel along an optical axis; and a second drive unit configured to move a second lens barrel along an optical axis, wherein the second drive unit is disposed between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel and is configured to change the distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel.

[0009] The second drive unit may include: a variable member having a first end connected to a first lens barrel and a second end connected to a second lens barrel, and having a length that changes based on the application of current; and a connecting plate configured to apply current to the variable member.

[0010] The variable component may include a linear actuator whose length along the optical axis changes based on the application of current.

[0011] The first end of the variable member can be attached to the first lens barrel, and the second end of the variable member can be inserted into an insertion slot provided in the second lens barrel.

[0012] The variable component can be attached to the surface of the first lens barrel opposite to the second lens barrel.

[0013] The variable member may include an extension protruding from the second end of the variable member that is inserted into the insertion slot, and the extension may be configured to protrude in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the variable member.

[0014] The insertion slot can be configured to have a depth set in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the second lens barrel.

[0015] The first drive unit can be configured to move the first lens barrel based on the operation of a voice coil motor that realizes electromagnetic coupling between the coil and the magnet.

[0016] The second lens barrel can be configured to move together with the first lens barrel when the first lens barrel is moved by the first drive unit.

[0017] Variable components may include shape memory alloys, the length of which changes based on the application of an electric current.

[0018] The lens module may include a housing, in which a first lens barrel and a second lens barrel are housed, wherein the connecting plate may include a flexible circuit board, and wherein the position of a first end of the connecting plate may be fixed relative to the housing, and the position of a second end of the connecting plate may be fixed relative to the first lens barrel.

[0019] In general, a camera module includes: a reflective module configured to change the direction of travel of incident light; a lens module to which light emitted from the reflective module is incident; wherein the lens module includes: a first lens barrel configured to move along an optical axis; a second lens barrel configured to be opposite to the first lens barrel and move along an optical axis; and a variable member configured to have a first end fastened to the first lens barrel and a second end fastened to the second lens barrel, wherein the distance between the first end and the second end of the variable member changes based on the application of an electric current.

[0020] The variable component may include a linear actuator whose length along the optical axis changes based on the application of current.

[0021] Variable components may include shape memory alloys, the length of which changes based on the application of an electric current.

[0022] The camera module may include a connection plate that is connected to the variable component and is configured to apply current to the variable component.

[0023] The first lens barrel may include a receiving groove, in which the connecting plate is partially received.

[0024] In general, a camera module includes: a first lens barrel configured to move in an optical axis direction based on a first drive unit; a second lens barrel configured to move in an optical axis direction based on a second drive unit; a third lens barrel; and a linear actuator including a first end connected to the first lens barrel and a second end connected to the second lens barrel; wherein the length of the linear actuator is configured to change based on a received signal.

[0025] Linear actuators may include shape memory alloys.

[0026] The linear actuator can be inserted into and connected to the second lens barrel.

[0027] The second drive unit may include a linear actuator and a connection board that electrically connects the linear actuator to the motherboard.

[0028] Other features and aspects will be apparent from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary mobile electronic device according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 A perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0031] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a portion of the exemplary camera module shown.

[0032] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary camera module is shown.

[0033] Figures 5 to 7 It shows Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exemplary camera module is shown.

[0034] Figures 8 to 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments.

[0035] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed description, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. The drawings may not be drawn to scale, and for clarity, illustration, and convenience, the relative dimensions, scale, and descriptions of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The following detailed description is provided to aid the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein. However, various modifications, alterations, and equivalents of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely illustrative and is not limited to those orders set forth herein, but can be modified as will become apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application (except for operations that must occur in a specific order). Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of features known upon understanding the disclosure of this application may be omitted; note that the omission of features and their descriptions does not imply an admission that they are common general knowledge.

[0037] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided only to illustrate some of the many possible ways in which the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application.

[0038] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used in this document to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers, or sections are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or section from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, the first component, part, region, layer, or section mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as the second component, part, region, layer, or section.

[0039] Throughout the specification, when an element (such as a layer, region, or substrate) is described as "on another element," "connected to," or "attached to" another element, it may be directly "on another element," directly "connected to," or directly "attached to" the other element, or there may be one or more other elements between that element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly on another element," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there are no other elements between that element and the other element.

[0040] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, numbers, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0041] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b) may be used in this document to describe components. Each of these terms is not used to define the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding component, but merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other components.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, upon understanding the disclosure of this application. Terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and in the disclosure of this application, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0043] Furthermore, in the description of exemplary embodiments, such descriptions will be omitted when it is considered that a detailed description of a structure or function known after understanding the disclosure of this application would lead to a vague interpretation of the exemplary embodiments.

[0044] In the following description, examples will be given in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same reference numerals in the drawings will always denote the same elements.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary mobile electronic device according to one or more embodiments.

[0046] Reference Figure 1 The exemplary mobile electronic device 1 according to one or more embodiments can be implemented as a portable electronic device, such as, but not limited to, a mobile communication terminal, a smartphone, and a tablet PC equipped with multiple camera modules 500 and 1000.

[0047] In this example, multiple camera modules 500 and 1000 can be mounted on the mobile electronic device 1. The multiple camera modules 500 and 1000 can be arranged horizontally aligned as shown, or they can be arranged vertically aligned (although not shown). Although two camera modules 500 and 1000 are shown, this is only an example, and the number of camera modules can be more or less than two.

[0048] Alternatively, the mobile electronic device 1 in this example may consist only of the camera module 1000 with zoom capability described in this example.

[0049] In one example, at least one of the multiple camera modules 500 and 1000 can be configured as camera module 1000. That is, in one example, a mobile electronic device with dual camera modules includes at least one of the two camera modules that can be camera module 1000.

[0050] In one example, the camera module and the mobile electronic device including the camera module can implement functions such as, but not limited to, autofocus, zoom, and optical image stabilization, and can have a simple structure and reduced size. Furthermore, power consumption can be reduced.

[0051] In one example, the camera module 1000 may include multiple lenses, and the optical axis (Z-axis) of the lenses may point in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction (Y-axis direction, the direction from the front surface of the mobile electronic device to the rear surface, or the opposite direction).

[0052] In one example, the optical axis (Z-axis) of multiple lenses in the camera module 1000 can be formed in the width or length direction of the mobile electronic device 1.

[0053] Therefore, even when the camera module 1000 of the mobile electronic device 1 includes functions such as autofocus (hereinafter referred to as AF), zoom, and optical image stabilization (hereinafter referred to as OIS), the thickness of the mobile electronic device 1 will not increase. Therefore, the thickness of the mobile electronic device 1 can be reduced.

[0054] When implementing two camera modules, the entrance holes for light to enter the two camera modules can be set adjacent to each other.

[0055] In one example, the first camera module 1000 and the second camera module 500 can be configured to have different fields of view.

[0056] The first camera module 1000 may have a relatively narrow field of view (e.g., a telephoto camera), and the second camera module 500 may have a relatively wide field of view (e.g., a wide-angle camera). In one example, the first camera module 1000 may correspond to the following references, except... Figure 2 The camera module is not shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0057] In one example, the field of view of the first camera module 1000 can be formed in the range of 9° to 35°, and the field of view of the second camera module 500 can be formed in the range of 60° to 120°.

[0058] Therefore, by configuring the fields of view of the two camera modules differently, images of objects can be captured at various depths, and various image implementations can be performed, such as combining or overlapping images.

[0059] In a non-limiting example, the camera module 1000 may have AF, zoom, and OIS functions. Specifically, in the example camera module 1000, the movement of multiple lens barrels can be implemented as a long stroke in the optical axis direction, thereby enabling high-performance zoom functionality.

[0060] Because the camera module 1000, which includes functions such as AF, zoom, and OIS, can include a variety of components, its size may increase compared to a typical camera module.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 An exploded stereoscopic view of a portion of the camera module shown. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0062] Reference Figures 2 to 4 In one example, camera module 1000 may include housing 1010, reflection module 1100, lens module 1200, and image sensor module 1300.

[0063] The housing 1010 may have an internal space that can accommodate the reflection module 1100, the lens module 1200, and the image sensor module 1300.

[0064] In one example, such as Figure 3 As shown, housing 1010 can be provided in an integrated form, so that both reflection module 1100 and lens module 1200 can be accommodated in the internal space. However, examples are not limited to this, and separate housings accommodating reflection module 1100 and lens module 1200 can be connected to each other.

[0065] The housing 1010 may include a first housing 1010a and a second housing 1010b configured to be connected to each other.

[0066] The second housing 1010b may include an opening 1031 ( Figure 2 Light enters through opening 1031, and the direction of travel of the light entering through opening 1031 can be changed. The light can also enter the lens module 1200 via the reflection module 1100. The second housing 1010b can be integrated to cover the entire first housing 1010a, or it can be configured as a separate component covering the reflection module 1100 and the lens module 1200 respectively.

[0067] The reflection module 1100 can be disposed within the housing 1010 and can alter the direction of light travel. In one example, the direction of light incident through the opening 1031 of the camera module 1000 in the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the camera module 1000 can be changed to travel in the length direction (Z-axis) of the camera module 1000. Therefore, the reflection module 1100 may include optical path alteration components 1110, such as mirrors, prisms, and beam splitters.

[0068] Image sensor module 1300 may include an image sensor 1310 that converts light passing through multiple lenses into electrical signals, and a circuit board 1320 on which the image sensor 1310 is mounted. Image sensor module 1300 may include a filter that filters light incident through lens module 1200. In a non-limiting example, the filter may be implemented as an infrared cutoff filter.

[0069] Inside the housing 1010, with the lens module 1200 at the center, the reflection module 1100 can be located on the light incident side, and the image sensor module 1300 can be located on the opposite side.

[0070] The lens module 1200 may include multiple lenses L, and incident light, whose direction of travel may have been altered by the reflection module 1100, may pass through the multiple lenses L. Furthermore, the lens module 1200 can perform autofocus (AF) and zoom functions while moving along the optical axis (Z-axis) of at least one of the multiple lenses.

[0071] Lens module 1200 may include multiple lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230. In one example, three lens barrels may be provided. However, this is merely an example, and the number of lens barrels may be one or more.

[0072] In the camera module 1000, autofocus (AF) and zoom functions can be realized when at least one of the plurality of lens barrels 1210, 1220 and 1230 moves in the optical axis direction (Z axis).

[0073] In this example, the three lens barrels 1210, 1220 and 1230 can move in the direction of the optical axis, or lens barrel 1230 can be fixed so as not to move in the direction of the optical axis, and the autofocus (AF) and zoom functions can be achieved by the moving lens barrels 1210 and 1220.

[0074] In this example, the two rear lens barrels 1210 and 1220 can be responsible for zooming relative to the direction of light travel, while the front lens barrel 1230 can be responsible for autofocusing. However, the example is not limited to this, and the three lens barrels 1210, 1220 and 1230 can perform zooming and autofocusing functions separately or in an overlapping manner through various combinations.

[0075] In the lens module 1200 of this example, the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be configured to move along the optical axis (Z-axis) in the internal space of the housing 1010.

[0076] The first lens barrel 1210 can move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction based on the operation of the first drive unit 1240. In addition, the second lens barrel 1220 can be connected to the first lens barrel 1210 and can move together with the first lens barrel 1210 based on the movement of the first lens barrel 1210.

[0077] The first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be configured to be supported by the bottom surface of the housing 1010. In one example, the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can each be individually supported by the bottom surface of the housing 1010 via a ball joint or a shaft, and this is merely an example.

[0078] In one example, the first lens barrel 1210 is movable along the optical axis on a first axis 1215a and a spherical member (not shown). The first axis 1215a is fixedly disposed on one side of the bottom surface of the housing 1010 along the optical axis (Z-axis), and the spherical member (not shown) is disposed on the other side of the bottom surface of the housing 1010 and is movable along the optical axis (Z-axis). In this example, the first lens barrel 1210 can slide on the first axis 1215a and can roll on the spherical member.

[0079] Therefore, the first shaft 1215a and the ball component can be disposed between the first lens barrel 1210 and the housing 1010, and can support the first lens barrel 1210.

[0080] The first drive unit 1240 may include a plurality of magnets 1241a and a plurality of coils 1241b configured to be opposite the plurality of magnets 1241a to drive the first lens barrel 1210. In one example, the first drive unit 1240 may be configured to operate based on a voice coil motor (VCM) method that achieves electromagnetic coupling between the plurality of magnets 1241a and the plurality of coils 1241b.

[0081] In this example, the first lens barrel 1210 may need to be moved an extended distance in the optical axis direction to achieve a zoom camera. Therefore, each magnet 1241a can be implemented as a permanent magnet, which is magnetized to have two or more magnetic poles to have at least an N pole and a S pole in sequence in the optical axis direction.

[0082] Multiple magnets 1241a can be mounted on the side surface of the first lens barrel 1210. Additionally, multiple coils 1241b can be mounted on the housing 1010, each opposite to one of the magnets 1241a. In one example, the multiple coils 1241b can be mounted on a motherboard 1070 at positions opposite to the magnets 1241a, and the motherboard 1070 can be attached to the housing 1010.

[0083] At least a portion of coil 1241b can be configured to face magnet 1241a. Therefore, when power is supplied to the plurality of coils 1241b, the first lens barrel 1210, on which the plurality of magnets 1241a are mounted, can move along the optical axis (Z-axis) based on the electromagnetic influence between the plurality of magnets 1241a and the plurality of coils 1241b. Thus, zoom or autofocus can be achieved.

[0084] In one example, the motherboard 1070, on which multiple coils 1241b are mounted, can be configured as a flexible circuit board (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB)). However, this example is not limited to this. The motherboard 1070 can be disposed along the outer or inner surface of the housing and can be electrically connected to multiple coils 1241b mounted on one surface of the motherboard 1070.

[0085] A portion of the first lens barrel 1210, on which the magnet 1241a is mounted, may include an extension 1219 extending toward the second lens barrel 1220. In this example, the number of magnets mounted on the first lens barrel 1210 may be increased, thereby increasing the driving force of the first lens barrel 1210.

[0086] The second lens barrel 1220 can be disposed in the housing 1010 to move along the optical axis (Z-axis). The second lens barrel 1220 can be disposed in front of the first lens barrel 1210, and its optical axis can be configured to coincide with the optical axis of the first lens barrel 1210.

[0087] The second lens barrel 1220 can be disposed in the housing 1010 to move along the optical axis (Z-axis) based on the operation of the second drive unit 1250. Therefore, the shaft 1215b and the ball member (not shown) can also be disposed between the second lens barrel 1220 and the bottom surface of the housing 1010.

[0088] The second drive unit 1250 can adjust the spacing between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220. Therefore, the second drive unit 1250 can be connected to each of the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220, and can change the distance between them.

[0089] In this example, the second drive unit 1250 may include a variable component (or linear actuator) 1252 and a connecting plate 1254.

[0090] The connecting plate 1254 may have a first end connected to the variable member 1252 and a second end connected to the main board 1070, and may electrically connect the variable member 1252 to the main board 1070 and may apply current to the variable member 1252.

[0091] The connector 1254 can be configured as a circuit board with flexible properties. In one example, the connector 1254 can be formed by forming a wiring pattern on a flexible insulating film. The insulating film can be formed from materials such as, but not limited to, polyimide (PI), polyester (PET), or glass epoxy resin, but examples are not limited thereto.

[0092] One end of the circuit board of the connecting plate 1254 can be fixed relative to the housing, while the other end can be fixed relative to the first lens barrel. Therefore, when the first lens barrel 1210 moves, the other end of the connecting plate 1254 can move together with the first lens barrel 1210 and can maintain electrical connection with the variable member 1252.

[0093] The length of the connecting plate 1254 can be configured to be greater than the distance the first lens barrel 1210 moves. Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown, when the first lens barrel 1210 moves toward the image sensor 1310, the connecting plate 1254 can be bent and can protrude toward the first lens barrel 1210. Therefore, the first lens barrel 1210 may include a receiving groove 1216 in which the connecting plate 1254 is partially received. A portion of the bent connecting plate 1254 protruding toward the first lens barrel 1210 can be received in the receiving groove 1216.

[0094] The variable member 1252 can change the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 based on a signal sent from the main board 1070. Therefore, the variable member 1252 can be formed as a rod with a predetermined length, one end of which can be connected to the first lens barrel 1210 and the other end of which can be connected to the second lens barrel 1220.

[0095] In this example, the variable member 1252 may include a linear actuator whose length in the optical axis direction changes based on the current, and may include, for example, a piezoelectric linear actuator. Therefore, when an electrical signal is sent to the variable member 1252, the distance between the ends of the variable member 1252 may extend or decrease. Consequently, the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 may change.

[0096] As described above, the second lens barrel 1220 can be configured to move only along the length direction of axis 1215b in the optical axis direction. To correspond to this structure, the variable member 1252 can be configured such that its length direction is parallel to the optical axis, and its two ends can be fastened to the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 respectively.

[0097] The two ends of the variable member 1252 can be securely fastened to the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 respectively by fastening members such as adhesive members or bolts. However, the examples are not limited to this. In one example, at least a portion of the variable member 1252 can be inserted into and connected to the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220.

[0098] In this example, the first end of the variable member 1252 can be connected to a surface of the first lens barrel 1210 opposite to the second lens barrel 1220. The second end of the variable member 1252 can be inserted into and connected to the second lens barrel 1220. Therefore, an extension 1255 of the variable member 1252 protruding in a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the variable member 1252 can be provided on the second end of the variable member 1252, and an insertion slot 1225 into which the extension 1255 is inserted can be formed in the second lens barrel 1220.

[0099] The insertion slot 1225 can be formed in a shape corresponding to one end of the variable member 1252 on which the extension portion 1255 is formed. Additionally, in this example, the lens module 1200 can move toward the bottom surface of the first housing 1010a and can be disposed within the first housing 1010a. Furthermore, the insertion slot 1225 can be formed as a groove having a depth in a direction orthogonal to the movement direction of the second lens barrel 1220.

[0100] Therefore, when the first lens barrel 1210 is mounted on the first housing 1010a, the variable member 1252 connected to the first lens barrel 1210 can be inserted into the insertion slot 1225 of the second lens barrel 1220.

[0101] Next, the operation of the camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments will be described.

[0102] Figures 5 to 7 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the camera module shown.

[0103] Reference Figure 5 In the exemplary camera module 1000, a state is shown where both the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 have been moved to the image sensor 1310 side. As described above, the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be connected to each other via a variable member 1252. Therefore, the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 will not be greater than the length of the variable member 1252.

[0104] like Figure 6 As shown, the operation of moving the first lens barrel 1210 can be performed based on the operation of the first drive unit 1240. In this example, since the second lens barrel 1220 can be connected to the first lens barrel 1210 based on the variable member 1252, the second lens barrel 1220 can also move when the first lens barrel 1210 moves. During this process, the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can remain constant based on the connection of the variable member 1252.

[0105] When the first lens tube 1210 is moved to a specific position, the operation of moving the second lens tube 1220 to a specific position can be performed.

[0106] like Figure 7 As shown, in this operation, the movement of the second lens barrel 1220 can be performed based on the operation of the second drive unit 1250. The second drive unit 1250 can change the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 by increasing or decreasing the length of the variable member 1252.

[0107] Since the movement of the first lens barrel 1210 based on the operation of the first drive unit 1240 is fixed, the position of the second lens barrel 1220 can be changed when the length of the variable member 1252 changes.

[0108] The above operations can be performed sequentially or simultaneously. For example, the first drive unit 1240 can operate and move the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220, and then the second drive unit 1250 can operate and determine the final position of the second lens barrel 1220. Alternatively, the second drive unit 1250 can operate, and then the first drive unit 1240 can operate; or the first drive unit 1240 and the second drive unit 1250 can operate simultaneously, such that the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can move together and the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be adjusted.

[0109] In the camera module 1000 configured as described above in the example, the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can move together via the first drive unit 1240. Therefore, a single drive unit using a voice coil motor (VCM) method employing electromagnetic coupling between a coil and a magnet can be provided. In the example of the voice coil motor method, the volume occupied by the drive unit in the camera module 1000 may be relatively large. Therefore, when a drive unit for the voice coil motor method driving the second lens barrel 1220 is not provided, as in the example, the size of the camera module 1000 can be reduced.

[0110] In addition, compared to the example of two drive units operating in the voice coil motor method, the power consumption supplied to the drive units can be reduced.

[0111] The examples are not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made.

[0112] Figures 8 to 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments. Figures 8 to 10 In the exemplary camera module 1000 shown, the variable member 1252 can be configured to work with the example described above. Figures 1 to 7 The described camera module 1000 contains variable components of different types of actuators, and accordingly, based on... Figures 8 to 10 In the camera module 1000, the other components besides the variable member 1252 can be connected with... Figures 1 to 7 The description is the same as in [the previous text].

[0113] Reference Figure 8 In this example, at least a portion of the variable member 1252 included in the second drive unit 1250 of the camera module 1000 may include a shape memory alloy. In this example, when current is applied to the variable member 1252, the distance between the ends of the variable member 1252 may change to be shortened or lengthened, and may return to its initial state when the current is stopped.

[0114] Therefore, the variable component 1252 in the example can utilize the properties of shape memory alloys to change the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 by controlling the current.

[0115] In one example, a first end of the variable member 1252 may be connected to the upper surface of the first lens barrel 1210, and a second end of the variable member 1252 may be connected to the upper surface of the second lens barrel 1220. The variable member 1252 may be electrically connected to the connecting plate 1254 and may receive current or voltage from an external entity.

[0116] When an electric current is applied to the shape memory alloy included in the variable member 1252 and its length is changed, the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can change corresponding to the amount of length change of the variable member 1252. Therefore, the positions of the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be based on the first drive unit (e.g., Figure 4 The position of the first lens barrel 1210 can be changed by the movement of the first drive unit 1240 (in the first drive unit 1240) and the movement of the second drive unit. In one example, the position of the first lens barrel 1210 can be changed by the movement of the first drive unit 1240 (in the first drive unit 1240). Figure 4 (In the middle) adjustment, at the same time, the length of the variable component 1252 can be changed, so that the position of the second lens tube 1220 can be adjusted.

[0117] The operation of the camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0118] like Figure 8 As shown, in the exemplary camera module 1000, when the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 are in standby mode, current can be applied to the first drive unit 1240 (in... Figure 4 middle).

[0119] Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown, the first drive unit 1240 (in Figure 4 The first lens barrel 1210 can be moved. In this example, since the second lens barrel 1220 can be connected to the first lens barrel 1210 via a variable member 1252, when the first lens barrel 1210 is based on the first drive unit 1240 (in... Figure 4 When the driving force of the first lens barrel 1210 moves, the second lens barrel 1220 can move together with the first lens barrel 1210.

[0120] Subsequently, when the first lens tube 1210 moves to a specific position, the operation of moving the second lens tube 1220 to a specific position can be performed.

[0121] like Figure 10As shown, the movement of the second lens barrel 1220 can be performed based on the operation of the second drive unit 1250. The second drive unit 1250 can extend or shorten the length of the variable member 1252 by providing current to the variable member 1252 or by adjusting the amount of current provided. Therefore, the length of the variable member 1252 can be changed, thereby changing the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220. Thus, the position of the second lens barrel 1220 can be determined.

[0122] The above operations can be performed sequentially or simultaneously. In one example, Figure 4 The first drive unit 1240 can be operated to move the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220, and the second drive unit 1250 can be subsequently operated to determine the final position of the second lens barrel 1220. Alternatively, conversely, the second drive unit 1250 can be operated, and the first drive unit 1240 (in...) Figure 4 (in) can be operated thereafter, or, the first drive unit 1240 (in) Figure 4 The first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be operated simultaneously, so that the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can move together, and the distance between the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 can be adjusted.

[0123] According to the exemplary embodiments described above, compared with the two drive units of the voice coil motor operation method, the size of the lens module and the camera module can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced.

[0124] In addition, by continuously moving multiple lens barrels, continuous zoom or autofocus functions can be effectively performed.

[0125] In addition, lens modules with simplified structure and reduced weight can be provided.

[0126] Although embodiments have been described and illustrated above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the examples as defined by the appended claims.

[0127] For example, the above examples have described an instance where the connecting plate is directly connected to the variable member. However, the examples are not limited to this; the connecting plate can electrically connect the main substrate to the lens barrel, and the conductive member can electrically connect the connecting plate and the variable member to the lens barrel. Furthermore, these examples can be combined with each other.

[0128] While this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples after understanding the disclosure of this application, without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be considered descriptive only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects in each example is to be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may also be obtained if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in a different manner and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the detailed description above, but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents shall be construed as included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A lens module comprising: a first driving unit configured to move a first lens barrel in a direction of an optical axis; and a second driving unit configured to move a second lens barrel in the direction of the optical axis; wherein the second driving unit is disposed between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel, the first driving unit is configured to change a position of the first lens barrel, and the second driving unit is configured to change a distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel, and wherein the second driving unit includes a variable member having a first end coupled to the first lens barrel and a second end coupled to the second lens barrel, and having a length that changes based on an application of a current. The second driving unit further includes:

2. The lens module according to claim 1, wherein a connection plate configured to apply the current to the variable member. The variable member includes a linear actuator, a length of the linear actuator in the direction of the optical axis changes based on the application of the current.

3. The lens module according to claim 2, wherein The first end of the variable member is engaged to the first lens barrel, and the second end of the variable member is inserted into an insertion slot disposed in the second lens barrel.

4. The lens module according to claim 3, wherein The variable member is coupled to a surface of the first lens barrel opposite the second lens barrel.

5. The lens module according to claim 4, wherein 6.The lens module of claim 4, The variable member includes an extension protruding from the second end of the variable member inserted into the insertion slot, and wherein The extension is configured to protrude in a direction perpendicular to a length direction of the variable member. The insertion slot is configured to have a depth disposed in a direction perpendicular to a moving direction of the second lens barrel.

7. The lens module according to claim 6, wherein The first driving unit is configured to move the first lens barrel based on an operation of a voice coil motor that implements electromagnetic coupling between a coil and a magnet.

8. The lens module according to claim 1, wherein The second lens barrel is configured to move together with the first lens barrel when the first lens barrel is moved by the first driving unit.

9. The lens module according to claim 1, wherein The variable member includes a shape memory alloy, a length of the shape memory alloy changes based on the application of the current.

10. The lens module according to claim 2, wherein 11.The lens module of claim 2, further comprising: a housing in which the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are accommodated, wherein the connection plate includes a flexible circuit board, and wherein a position of a first end of the connection plate is fixed with respect to the housing, and a position of a second end of the connection plate is fixed with respect to the first lens barrel. 12.A camera module comprising: a reflection module configured to change a traveling direction of incident light; a lens module in which light emitted from the reflection module is incident; wherein the lens module includes: a first lens barrel configured to move in a direction of an optical axis; a second lens barrel configured to be opposite to the first lens barrel and move in the direction of the optical axis; and a variable member configured to have a first end fastened to the first lens barrel and a second end fastened to the second lens barrel, wherein a distance between the first end of the variable member and the second end of the variable member changes based on an application of a current, so that the variable member is configured to change a distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel. ​ 13. The camera module of claim 12, wherein, The variable member includes a linear actuator, a length of which in the optical axis direction is changed based on application of the electric current.

14. The camera module of claim 12, wherein, The variable member includes a shape memory alloy, a length of which is changed based on application of the electric current. 15.The camera module of claim 12, further comprising: a connection plate connected to the variable member and configured to apply the electric current to the variable member.

16. The camera module of claim 15, wherein, The first lens barrel includes an accommodation groove in which the connection plate is partially accommodated. 17.A camera module comprising: a first lens barrel configured to move in an optical axis direction based on a first driving unit; a second lens barrel configured to move in the optical axis direction based on a second driving unit; a third lens barrel; and a linear actuator including a first end coupled to the first lens barrel and a second end coupled to the second lens barrel and configured to change a distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel; wherein a length of the linear actuator is configured to be changed based on a received signal. The linear actuator includes a shape memory alloy.

18. The camera module of claim 17, wherein, The linear actuator is inserted into the second lens barrel and coupled to the second lens barrel.

19. The camera module of claim 17, wherein, The second driving unit includes the linear actuator and a connection plate electrically connecting the linear actuator to a main board.

20. The camera module of claim 17, wherein, ​

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